Marianne Matyash

During Israel's twelve-day war with Iran, hundreds of thousands of Israelis found themselves stuck abroad. Partnerships emerged between Israeli civil society organizations and the diaspora community to help Israelis find housing, medicine, and other community-based solutions. This demonstrates the importance of Israeli investment in strengthening community ties between Israelis abroad and the State of Israel.

Amid rising emigration, Israel must recognize the value of its global Israeli community, strengthen ties through dedicated educational initiatives, and create conditions that encourage return—turning today’s challenge into a long-term national asset.

9 B'av commemorates the destruction of the Second Temple in 70AD. As we mark the day, we face intense polarization within Israeli society and threats against our security from without. What lessons can we take from the story of the Temple's destruction that might serve us well today?